Traffic restrictions for Appleby Horse Fair approved
The horse fair, which has been running for centuries, will be returning from June 4 to 10
Traffic restrictions around Appleby Horse Fair have been approved by councillors.
The horse fair, which has been running for centuries, will be returning from June 4 to 10.
The world-famous event is the biggest Gypsy and Traveller fair in Europe, with thousands of people from the UK and beyond descending on the town, which only has a population of over 3,000, each year.
Westmorland and Furness Council proposed earlier this month to implement traffic orders during the fair to alleviate stress on the roads in and around Appleby-in-Westmorland.
Measures in the orders included the introduction of residents-only parking, a ‘no waiting at any time’ restriction, a one-way system being in operation and reduced speed limits.
At the Eden Locality Board on April 15, councillors voted to approve the measures.
Councillor Colin Atkinson told the meeting that Powis Lane was the main exit route after the fair and ‘became very busy’ – he said he hoped that the proposed 40mph limit be enforced.
A highways officer confirmed that the limits proposed in the TRO would be enforced if agreed and that the police had supported the changes outlined.
The Hesket and Lazonby councillor added there had previously been complaints that parking tickets had been issued ‘against local residents parking outside their own homes’.
He asked whether a local parking scheme had been considered.
The officer said the issues was being considered by the Multi-Agency Steering Group’s Operational Sub-Group.
Councillor Michael Hanley of Alston and Fellside ward questioned if the use of the Library car park as a pen for horses would be complied with by those attending the event and if any non-compliance issues were expected.
The officer said the approach had been ‘successful’ last year and that the majority of those attending had used the car park as directed.
Councillor Adrian Waite of Kirkby Stephen and Tebay commended the highways department for its ‘significant role’ in planning and support for the event.
Councillors then voted to approve the measures.
Described as a gathering and reunion of Gypsy and Traveller families, the Appleby Horse Fair is well-known for the washing of the horses in the River Eden as well as its array of colourful traditional gypsy bowtop caravans.